9 Amazing Things to See & Do in Dumfries

If you’re looking for an unusual and slightly spooky way of exploring Dumfries’ history, you’re in luck! Mostly Ghostly Tours is the regions’ first paranormal investigation team who hosts a selection of researched ghost and local history tours.

As well as ghost and haunted tours, the team also investigates big cat sightings, UFOs, supernatural and paranormal occurrences, so there’s plenty of quirky tours and things to get involved in here.

Looking to get in touch with the history and soul of Rabbie Burns? Head to The Globe Inn where you can tuck into some hearty pub grub, embark on a Burns Tour and delve into the past of Scotland’s National Bard, or join in a friendly and welcoming event.

Enjoy a delicious meal, all made using only the finest and freshest ingredients. Finish your dining experience with a tipple of your choice, complimented by energetic entertainment, including Scottish pipes, traditional poems and patter.

This intriguing looking castle is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. With a unique triangular shape and surrounded by a moat, complete with a twin towered gatehouse and imposing battlements, the castle is a true sight to see. Head into the grounds and explore the ancient ruins of this medieval fortress, learning interesting and educational facts along the way. Stop in at the castle tearoom for delicious home baking and warm up with some freshly ground coffee. 

Please note, there is currently no visitor access to the West range, outer stair, North West and East towers.

This National Centre for Children’s Storytelling and Literature uncovers the world of stories and tales and is the birthplace of Peter Pan!

Step into Moat Brae House and the Neverland Discovery Garden where you and the wee ones can discover fascinating facts, get hands-on with interactive exhibits, enjoy inspiring play spaces, chase Peter Pan's shadow, or cosy up with a book in the sunlit library. Keep an eye open for free storytelling sessions, workshops, events and more.

Head out to the lush greenery of the countryside and enjoy a farm experience at Ernespie Farm. Explore the outdoors and introduce the wee ones to a range of friendly farm animals big and small. The kids will love the Outdoor Play (open from April - October) with tractor rides, woodland walks, bouncy cushions, climbing frames, and pedal karts, to name a few.

If the weather isn’t great, head indoors to the Busy Bee Soft Play where kids of all ages can enjoy hours of fun! Afterwards, tuck into a tasty lunch or afternoon snack at the Farmhouse Kitchen and stop by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir before you go.

Explore the house where Robert Burns wrote some of his best-known poems and spent his final years.

Robert Burns House is a popular site for Burns' enthusiasts to visit from around the world, and throughout the years has seen many famous visitors including the poets Wordsworth, Coleridge and Keats. See where Burns sat to write his famous works and view some of his original manuscripts and personal belongings too.

Nestled on the banks of the River Nith lies Robert Burns’ former home where he and his wife lived for many years. This idyllic spot is ideal for learning more about Scotland’s National Bard and uncovering his life and works through many interesting things to see and do, including The Farmhouse, The Spence, the Granary Museum, the stables and orchard, tours and more.

Originating from the 13th century, the ruin of Sweetheart Abbey was founded by Lady Dervorguilla of Galloway, in memory of her husband Lord John Balliol and boasts a magnificent red sandstone appearance.

Admire the cloisters up close and delve into the enticing history of the abbey, along with the stories and tales of Lady Dervorguilla who grieved her husband so much, she carried around his embalmed heart in a casket until she passed.

Dumfries & Galloway is the perfect region to explore if you fancy getting out on two wheels and perfecting your mountain biking skills. Home to 7stanes Mabie and 7stanes Ae, both just a short distance from Dumfries, here you can pick your favourite trails to kick up some dirt and try out new tricks. Both locations offer tracks and trails to suit everyone, from the complete beginners to the seasoned bikers.